TSA Temporarily Bans All Liquids, Gels In Carry-On Bags On Flights To And From Russia

Those little plastic bags can’t save you now, folks. At least not if you’re going to Russia from the U.S. or flying here from Russia: After warning earlier this week that toothpaste tubes would get an extra long look, the Transportation Security Administration has placed a temporary ban on all liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags on any flights involving Russia.

Authorities issued the ban last night, reports the AFP, while President Barack Obama is still assuring any Americans heading to the Winter Olympics that Russia is on top of security.

“I think the Russians have an enormous stake, obviously, in preventing any kind of terrorist act or violence at these venues. They have put a lot of resources into it,” Obama told NBC.

“We are consistently working with them to make sure that not only our athletes are safe, but everyone who’s attending these Games are safe.”

Russia already banned domestic travelers from having any of those substances in their carry-ons last month. You can always pack liquids in your checked luggage.

“As always, our security posture, which at all times includes a number of measures both seen and unseen, will continue to respond and appropriately adapt to protect the American people from an ever evolving threat picture,” a Department of Homeland Security official said.

Meanwhile Delta Airlines announced on its website that travelers moving between the two countries will have to check in with an airline representative in person at the airport — no online check-ins or using a smartphone at an airport kiosk.

“Delta encourages customers traveling to and from Russia to arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance of departure time,” the airline said.